Thermomix cops $70k fine after making ‘misleading’ NDIS approval claims

The company behind all-in-one blender Thermomix has copped a $79,000 fine for allegedly claiming its products were endorsed by the National Disability Insurance Scheme.

Vorwerk is the second company in a week to be hit with infringement notices from the consumer watchdog, alleging Thermomix falsely promoted its TM6 cooking product and Kobold cordless vacuum and mop as being endorsed through the NDIS or registered by an entity administering the NDIS.

This included allegedly describing the products as “NDIS approved”, “NDIS-registered product”, “NDIS-consumables”, “NDIS assistive technology” and “NDIS equipment’”.

Australian Competition and Consumer Commission chair Gina Cass-Gottlieb said the NDIS did not provide specific approval for any particular goods or services.

“Each NDIS participant has unique needs, and what’s funded under their plan is determined individually, not through a list of approved products,” she said.

“There are no categories of goods or services which are automatically NDIS approved or funded for all NDIS participants.”

Ms Cass-Gottlieb warned it would not hesitate to take appropriate action against companies that misled consumers experiencing vulnerability or disadvantage.

Thermomix has been contacted for comment.

The ACCC last November put businesses on notice of its focus on problematic advertising practices targeting NDIS participants.

Since then, it has taken compliance and enforcement action against a number of businesses.

WA bedding and mattress retailer Bedshed was last week slapped with a $40,000 fine for allegedly making similar false statements its mattresses, furniture and bedding accessories were “NDIS approved” or “NDIS permitted”.